BREAKING: The Boston Celtics have just traded Georges Niang and two future second-round picks to the Utah Jazz for rookie RJ Luis Jr., according to sources reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania. This significant maneuver, confirmed on October 31, 2023, sees Niang’s over $8 million salary utilized in Utah’s trade exception from the John Collins deal.
In another crucial update, the Celtics have officially signed free-agent forward Chris Boucher to a one-year, $3.3 million deal, as disclosed by Boucher’s agent, Sam Permut. This strategic signing allows Boston to stay below the second apron, now sitting $7.8 million under the threshold after both transactions, while effectively saving $34 million in luxury tax penalties.
The Celtics have dramatically slashed their payroll since the NBA draft, dropping from $540 million to $239 million. Boucher, who boasts the all-time franchise record in points, rebounds, blocks, minutes, and games played off the bench for the Toronto Raptors, is expected to play a pivotal role in Boston’s frontcourt this season. Boucher was also the last remaining member from Toronto’s 2019 NBA Championship team.
Niang, now returning to Utah after spending four seasons there from 2017-2021, was originally acquired by the Celtics in the Kristaps Porzingis trade with the Atlanta Hawks. With a career shooting percentage of 39.9% from beyond the arc on over four attempts per game, Niang enters his 10th season in the league, bringing valuable experience back to the Jazz.
Meanwhile, Luis, a 22-year-old rookie who went undrafted out of St. John’s, has signed a two-way deal with the Jazz, adding depth to their roster. With these developments, the Celtics and Jazz are reshaping their lineups, aiming for greater success in the upcoming NBA season.
As the NBA landscape continues to evolve, fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how these trades will impact both teams. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
